Words / C1

im-POHZ-ing/ɪmˈpəʊzɪŋ/

Imposing means large and impressive in appearance: an imposing building, an imposing crest. Impose (already in the dictionary) is the verb (force something on someone) — different family in use. A crest is branding; a cap is a number.

Meaning

Large and impressive in appearance.

Examples

• “An imposing crest does not waive the occupancy cap.”
• “Impressive is milder. Grand is a cousin. Impose is already in this course (verb: force). A crest is a logo. A cap is a certificate. Keep the number; then hang the crest.”

Good to know

Large and impressive to look at. Mix-up: impose (already in the dictionary, verb). A crest ≠ a waived cap.

Near in meaning

impressive

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